Belgium’s King Philippe has described abuses in Gaza as a “disgrace to humanity” in a speech on the eve of today’s national day — unusually direct remarks on international affairs from a monarch who traditionally avoids public politics, according to Reuters.

“I add my voice to all those who denounce the serious humanitarian abuses in Gaza, where innocent people are dying of hunger and being killed by bombs while trapped in their enclaves,” he said, speaking at his palace in Brussels.

“The current situation has gone on for far too long. It is a disgrace to all of humanity. We support the call by the United Nations Secretary-General to immediately end this unbearable crisis.”

It is the first time Philippe has spoken out so strongly and unambiguously about a conflict in public.